Canberra into top 4 in Australia's National Rugby League

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SYDNEY (AP) — Canberra moved into the National Rugby League's top four with a 54-4 win over South Sydney on Sunday, the Raiders' fifth consecutive victory.

The win, set up by New Zealand winger Jordan Rapana's two first-half tries, lifted the Raiders a point ahead of defending champion North Queensland and into third place. It was South Sydney's eighth loss in a row.

Canberra coach Ricky Stuart played down his side's premiership chances.

"Timing is a big thing in rugby league," Stuart said. "Things can turn very nasty on you very quickly ... if you've got your players buying into your culture and believing in it, we're very fortunate."

Later Sunday, Manly led 26-0 at halftime and went on to beat Newcastle 36-16, handing the last-place Knights their 13th loss in a row.

On Monday, Cronulla will take on Gold Coast and attempt to win its 16th consecutive game and move ahead of Melbourne into first place.

Melbourne moved level on points with the Sharks but ahead on points differential with a 16-8 win Saturday over North Queensland.